Behind the praise (From York Press)

Behind the praise

11:03am Wednesday 12th September 2012 in Letters By Readers' letters

THE achievements of our Paralympic team have unquestionably changed the perceptions of the population as to the capabilities and potential of disabled people.

Everyday, I see or hear some governmental minister jump on the feel-good bandwagon, trying to drum up some positive PR by associating themselves with the games.

I hope that the hype and spin from David Cameron, Eric Pickles et al generates a more focused and tangible attitude moving forward.

However, I think the decision to shut down Remploy factories across the UK is a more accurate indicator of the attitude this administration has towards disability.

David Forrester, Main Street, Knapton, York.

 

• WHEN the dust has settled from the Paralympics euphoria, will the disabled be treated any fairer? I doubt it.

Right back to the First and Second World War when disabled veterans coming back into an uncaring business environment were reduced to selling matches on our streets to make a living, admiration is short lived.

Remploy was set up to address this issue but now has been demolished by this present Government; their present mandate is no better: they will withdraw vital benefits from the disabled by means testing; mean being the operative word.

I know from bitter experience as a disabled employee how in an enlightened environment I could manage to develop and progress in the working environment; or stagnate in a shortsighted one.

Evolution into better individuals can be part of all of us if only we can look upwards and not downwards. This Paralympic dream we have witnessed must not end here.

Phil Shepherdson, Chantry Close, Woodthorpe , York.